Inter Milan's Rise Fueled by Lautaro Martinez's Late Heroics as AC Milan Falters

Inter Milan Takes Charge with Martinez's Crucial Strike

Inter Milan surged to the summit of Serie A with a dramatic 1-0 win over Genoa, courtesy of Lautaro Martinez's decisive header during the closing stages of the match at San Siro. Martinez's goal in the 78th minute, a result of a well-placed corner that took a deflection, shattered Genoa's firm defense, orchestrated under the guidance of their manager, Patrick Vieira.

This victory holds significant weight as it propels Inter one point ahead of Napoli, setting up a highly anticipated showdown for the Scudetto next weekend in Naples. Martinez, registering his 10th league goal of the season, capitalized after Nicolo Barella's powerful strike rattled the crossbar, and a critical save by reserve goalkeeper Josep Martinez preserved their lead by blocking a threatening attempt from Caleb Ekuban.

After a setback against Juventus, this win rejuvenated Inter's momentum in the title race. Reflecting on the match, Martinez expressed, ‘We put our heart and soul into it… we’re still in it,’ underlining the team's determination and spirit.

AC Milan's Woes Deepen at Torino

Meanwhile, AC Milan's struggles continued with a frustrating 2-1 defeat against Torino. The match was marred by a bizarre own goal early on when goalkeeper Mike Maignan's clearance ricocheted off teammate Malick Thiaw, gifting Torino an early lead in the fifth minute.

Adding to Milan's woes, Christian Pulisic missed his maiden penalty attempt, stopped by Torino's Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, who impressively registered his fourth penalty save this season. Despite a well-taken equalizer from Tijjani Reijnders that brought Milan level, Torino seized the opportunity through a swift counter-attack led by Gvidas Gineitis following a quick free-kick.

Milan’s manager, Sergio Conceicao, voiced his disillusionment, noting, ‘Torino were leading at half-time without having a shot on goal… we must have had 30 shots,’ emphasizing his side’s missed chances and frustration. This loss compounds Milan's disappointments, having recently been ousted from the Champions League by Feyenoord, leaving them at seventh place, six points behind Lazio in the race for a top-four finish.